Job Path

Keener

Background: Overall, one of my ambitions is to become a Network Security Engineer (role, not necessarily the title). I have 8 years recent experience as a Helpdesk, Helpdesk Supervisor, and LAN Support Specialist. Currently, I support a VoIP phone system, LAN connectivity (switches, network drops, computer hardware), supporting another company that our owners have a stake in, and a couple of other companies as well. I have setup and tested SonicWALL firewalls, SSL VPNs, general helpdesk duties, helped to setup an acquisition/merger to one of our networks (SonicWALL, switch, and computers and working with phone company to get MPLS setup and working), and anything else that gets thrown my way. Before that, I have experience as a support tech in the Marine Reserves. I have a BS in Computer Science, 1/2 of an MBA, Net+ and Sec+. Currently I am working on the SSCP.

My goals for next year would be a CCNA, and/or CCNP and/or MCITP: SA (or whatever the new one is called). In a couple of years (once I have more experience in some other domains) I plan to get my CISSP.

Question: With Network Security Engineer in mind, do I first need to transition to another Network Support role, then to Network Engineer, go more directly into a Network Security Engineer position, or a different path? I'm not really looking to job hop just yet as I am getting great experience where I am currently at, I just want to have a direction/goal in mind.

Thanks.